25 ECO-certified accommodation options around Australia

hero media
For travel that doesn’t hurt the environment, look no further than these ECO-certified accommodations.

Sleep like a baby knowing the accommodation you’re staying at on your travels has the environment as high a priority as your comfort. Ecotourism Australia’s ECO-certified experiences are backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices, so travellers are sure to find high-quality nature-based tourism experiences no matter what their interests are. Here are some of our favourite ECO-certified accommodation options in Australia.

We’ve also covered the top ECO-certified attractions and tours in another article to help you round out your sustainable travel options.

1. Tarkine Wilderness Lodge Meunna, Tas

Escape to the magnificent Tarkine Wilderness Lodge. Located on the North West Coast of Tasmania, this unique lodge is nestled at the edge of the largest temperate rainforest in the southern hemisphere, The Tarkine.

Tarkine Wilderness Lodge is constructed from beautiful Tasmanian timber, nestled on 200 acres of privately owned land within majestic wilderness of takayna/Tarkine. (Image: Pete Harmsen)
Tarkine Wilderness Lodge is constructed from beautiful Tasmanian timber, nestled on 200 acres of privately owned land within the majestic wilderness of takayna/Tarkine. (Image: Pete Harmsen)

2. Wilpena Pound Resort, SA

A haven of outback hospitality, the Wilpena Pound Resort is an Adnyamathanha-owned resort located within the spectacular Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. The property complements its resort, glamping and camping accommodation offerings with 4WD tours, Aboriginal cultural experiences, bushwalking, cycling and scenic flights. Often referred to as Australia’s unknown icon, a visit to Wilpena Pound is a wonder to behold.

The Bendleby ranges (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)
Wilpena Pound Resort complements its accommodation offerings with 4WD tours. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

3. Lorne Bush House Cottages + Eco Lodges, Vic

A unique bush and beach experience with an abundance of native birds and wildlife on the property plus magnificent beaches and walks to waterfalls and lookouts just minutes away. The cosy Lorne Bush House Cottages + Eco Lodges are a wonderful base from which to enjoy and explore Lorne, its hinterland and The Great Ocean Road.

4. Cooinda Lodge Kakadu, NT

Cooinda Lodge is located beneath a canopy of trees beside Yellow Water Billabong, home to world-renowned Yellow Water Cruises, where crocodiles and birds are seen on the flood plain amongst Paperbark, Pandanus and Fresh Water Mangroves.

the lagoon swimming pool at Cooinda Lodge. (Image: Tourism NT)
5. Enjoy the lagoon swimming pool at Cooinda Lodge. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Cicada Lodge, Katherine, NT

Cicada Lodge is a unique luxury lodge overlooking the Katherine River within the Nitmiluk National Park. Cicada Lodge gives the opportunity to explore the cultural and natural landscapes of Nitmiluk National Park.

Overlook the Katherine River within the Nitmiluk National Park at Cicada Lodge. (Image: Tourism NT and Peter Eve)
Overlook the Katherine River within the Nitmiluk National Park at Cicada Lodge. (Image: Tourism NT and Peter Eve)

6. Broger’s End, Kangaroo Valley, NSW

Set on 160 acres of varying landscape, Broger’s End provides eco-eclectic accommodation for romantic retreats or family fun. An old milking shed, and massive farm shed has been lovingly restored using reclaimed and recycled materials.

The Shed at Broger's End has been lovingly and creatively transformed using recycled and reclaimed materials. (Image: Broger's End)
The Shed at Broger’s End has been lovingly and creatively transformed using recycled and reclaimed materials. (Image: Broger’s End)

7. The Cove, Jervis Bay, NSW

The Cove offers gorgeous little beach shacks nestled in the National Park and surrounded by the beauty of Jervis Bay. Just 2 hours from Sydney it is the perfect place to escape for the weekend and enjoy! It also made our list of the best Jervis Bay accommodation.

8. Tanja Lagoon Camp, NSW

Tanja Lagoon Camp sits on the edge of a wild coastal lagoon, surrounded by the Spotted Gum forests of Mimosa Rocks National Park on the Sapphire Coast of NSW. Featuring four self-contained luxury safari tents, two eco-cabins and a meeting place.

Stay in one of the luxury safari tents for an unmissable view. (Image: Tanja Lagoon Camp)
Stay in one of the luxury safari tents for an unmissable view. (Image: Tanja Lagoon Camp)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

9. Noonaweena, Kulnura, NSW

Noonaweena is a sixteen-room boutique resort sitting high on an escarpment overlooking Mt Yango National Park. The aboriginal translation of Noonaweena means Resting Place in the Bush and it lives up to that name.

The entry to Noonaweena at Dawn (Image: Noonaweena)
The aboriginal translation of Noonaweena means Resting Place in the Bush. (Image: Noonaweena)

10. Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat, Dunbogan, NSW

The Treehouse Retreat is a boutique award-winning experience located on the mid-north coast of NSW. There are just two private and secluded Treehouses on a 13-acre property that has 400 metres of riverfront and is just a short walk to the beach.

A treehouse retreat. (Image: Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat)
Stay in a treehouse! (Image: Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat)

11. Forest Rise Chalets and Lodge, Margaret River, WA

Forest Rise Chalets and Lodge has natural beauty, a native forest setting and is within close proximity to the Margaret River wine region making it the perfect landscape for a truly relaxing adult retreat with all the personal touches of a privately owned and operated business.

A couple enjoy nibbles and wine by the fire. (Image: Forest Rise Chalets and Lodge)
Enjoy a grazing platter and wine by the fire. (Image: Forest Rise Chalets and Lodge)

12. Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge, WA

Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge is exclusive to APT Kimberley Wilderness Adventures’ guests and is the only permanent accommodation located on the Mitchell Plateau, close to the famous Mitchell Falls. Featuring just 24 tented cabins, the lodge offers truly intimate, small-scale accommodation in the wilderness.

13. Eco Beach Resort, Broome, WA

One of the world’s most remarkable destinations, Eco Beach is a unique eco-resort set in a pristine landscape just one hour drive south of Broome. Accommodation is provided through a variety of beautifully appointed, self-sustaining eco villas and safari-style eco tents. The centrepiece of the retreat is Jack’s Bar on the oceanfront featuring a restaurant and pool deck with an alluring infinity pool.

A woman relaxing at the pool at Eco Beach Resort. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)
Swim at the Infinity Pool at Eco Beach Resort (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

14. Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, WA

Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef is a beach-side safari camp nestled in the dunes of the Cape Range National Park. Each of the fifteen wilderness tents offers views of the surrounding bush and beach. At Sal Salis, you will discover the magic of true eco-luxe camping.

Aerial view of Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, near Exmouth (Image: Tourism Western Australia)
Camp beachside at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

15. Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge, WA

Spend a night in the heart of Purnululu National Park. Walk through 350-million-year-old gorges and amongst striped sandstone domes, then enjoy the Bungles Bar at Bungle Bungle Savannah Lodge.

16. Swell Lodge, Christmas Island, WA

The Swell Lodge resort is the national park’s only accommodation, and probably the island’s most famous. Not only is it highly luxurious and exclusive, but it’s also a fully-inclusive stay in one of two glass-fronted eco-chalets.

An aerial shot of Swell Lodge
Swell Lodge is luxurious and exclusive.

17. Daintree Ecolodge and Spa, Qld

Daintree Ecolodge and Spa, situated in the heart of the magnificent Daintree Rainforest, offers sustainable luxury in a breathtaking location. The tropical retreat is the only boutique accommodation in the World-Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest, boasting 15 eco-friendly bayans in an awe-inspiring setting that will revitalise all your senses.

Retreat rooms amongst the tree canopy.(Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
The eco-friendly bayans in an awe-inspiring setting will revitalise all your senses. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

18. Pumpkin Island, Yeppoon, Qld

Pumpkin Island is a private island escape for couples, families or groups. This tiny gem – just 6 hectares in total – offers eco-friendly accommodation for up to 34 guests in 7 self-catering units powered by the sun. All offer private decks and barbecues overlooking the sunset.

Lady walking in to the main area of Pumpkin Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
For privacy and luxury all in one. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

19. Kingfisher Bay Resort, K’gari, Qld

Kingfisher Bay Resort is a fully integrated eco-tourism hotel designed to give guests an enjoyable nature-based experience on World Heritage-listed K’gari (Fraser Island) while creating minimal impact on the environment.

Family enjoying the sunset at Kingfisher Bay Resort. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
The whole family can enjoy Kingfisher Bay Resort. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

20. Habitat Noosa, Qld

Habitat Noosa is an eco-based tourism business located within 65 acres of the Great Sandy national park and perched on the edge of stunning Lake Cootharaba. With an array of accommodation options from camping to glamping, on-site bistro and microbrewery, water activities, walking treks, and daily tours to Australia’s only everglades it provides the ultimate accessible wilderness experience.

Eco-tourism accommodation in the Noosa Everglades (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Habitat Noosa brings all the vibes. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

21. Heron Island Resort, Qld

Heron Island Resort is a PADI 5-star Dive Resort, situated on a natural coral cay in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area Marine Park boasting some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.

Aerial of Heron Island (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Get your dive on at Heron Island. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

22. Elysian Retreat, Whitsundays, Qld

The most secluded island retreat in the Whitsundays, Elysian is a soulfully crafted oasis ecologically designed to inspire a serene sojourn. A blissful escape from the crowds on the southern point of Long Island with an emphasis placed on exclusively tailored experiences for a maximum of 20 guests.

An exterior shot of Elysian Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Relax at the ecologically designed island retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

23. O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, Canungra, Qld

Located in World Heritage-listed Lamington National Park, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat is the perfect nature escape. Discover a world of lush rainforest, stunning waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife.

Woman relaxing in a spa on the balcony of a Villa at O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Relax in a spa on the balcony at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

24. Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, Tallebudgera Valley, Qld

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat is a multi-award-winning wellness destination to help guests refocus on health. With innovative fully inclusive programs from two to seven days, this dedicated low-tech retreat provides spacious natural surrounds on 200 hectares, specialty spa treatments, organic cuisine and key wellness seminars.

Take a swim in the heated infinity edge lap pool at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Take a swim in the heated infinity edge lap pool at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

25. Orpheus Island Lodge, Palm Island, Qld

Orpheus Island Lodge is an unspoilt tropical paradise stretching across 11km of turquoise coastline surrounded by the World Heritage-listed Marine Park. Conservation is at the very heart of the Orpheus mission which is to safeguard the incredible natural surroundings.

Bathroom area in South Suite accommodation at Orpheus Island Lodge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Take an outdoor bath at Orpheus Island Lodge. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Want to see more stories from Australian Traveller in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set Australian Traveller as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "Australian Traveller". That's it.
Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her 4+ years at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? South Australia and The Kimberley.
View profile and articles
hero media

This is Mornington Peninsula’s most indulgent itinerary

    Kellie Floyd Kellie Floyd
    The Mornington Peninsula blends vineyards, galleries, golf and delicious finds for an unforgettable getaway that indulges all penchants. 

    Just over an hour from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula blends coast and country in a way that feels effortlessly indulgent. It’s a region where vineyard views meet acclaimed dining, art and culture is never far from the sea, and where hot springs bubble alongside rolling fairways. Whether your escape is a long lunch, an immersive art trail or a round of golf, the Mornington Peninsula has an itinerary to match. And there’s always a glass of good local pinot waiting for you at the end of the day.  

    A creative trail through the Peninsula 

    The Mornington Peninsula is a haven for artists and creatives. Its coastal views and rolling landscapes have long been a source of inspiration. Stay at the historical InterContinental Sorrento, a grand hotel established in 1875, recently renovated to blend heritage charm with contemporary elegance. With curated art lining the hotel’s corridors and rooms, you could spend hours simply wandering the halls, studying the walls. 

    Pt Leo Estate outdoor gallery
    Wander around Pt. Leo Estate’s outdoor gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria/Jesse Hisco)

    If looking for an outdoor gallery with sea views, head to Pt. Leo Estate, a landscaped vineyard home to a sculpture park featuring more than 70 large-scale works by both local and international artists, all easily accessible by connecting paths. After strolling through the vineyards, there are three dining options: fine dining at Laura, a relaxed meal at Pt. Leo Restaurant or a vino at the Wine Terrace. For something more hands-on, sign up for the Sip & Sketch experience. And if you book directly into the elegant Lancemore at Lindenderry Red Hill, you’ll enjoy free access to the sculpture park.  

    food at Pt Estate
    Pt Leo Estate boasts three elegant dining venues. (Image: Visit Victoria/Two Palms/Arianna Harry)

    For those who like their art framed by rolling hills, vines and wetlands, Montalto is the place. More than 30 sculptures are dotted throughout the property. The vineyard offers a formal restaurant and casual tables among the seasonal produce in a setting that feels like Mr. McGregor’s Garden from Peter Rabbit. And there’s always the option to picnic on the lawn.  

    Montalto Vineyard
    Montalto Vineyard is an idyllic setting for afternoon wining and dining. (Image: Visit Victoria/Robyn Lea)

    The Sorrento-Portsea Artists Trail offers a self-guided walk along bush paths and sea cliffs to see the same landscapes that once inspired brushstrokes of some of Australia’s most famous artists. Along the way, interpretive signs share insights into the area’s artistic past. And, if the peninsula’s weather turns a little wild, the region is brimming with galleries, particularly around Flinders, Sorrento and Red Hill. Artisan studios are open by appointment.  

    A feast for food and wine lovers 

    With more than 200 vineyards, around 60 wineries and cellar doors, plus an abundance of breweries, distilleries, orchards and family-run farms spanning generations, the Mornington Peninsula is a playground for food and wine enthusiasts.  

    Cassis Red Hill
    Luxurious stay, Cassis Red Hill.

    The perfect base for a culinary inclined trip is Cassis Red Hill, where luxury accommodation is tucked between grape vines and olive trees. A quiet nod to the fishing village of Cassis in the south of France, this retreat is all about contemporary elegance – crisp linen, sunlit interiors and a private mineral plunge pool. 

    Then, for a stand-out lunch, Green Olive at Red Hill offers a delicious way to enjoy the region. Graze on generous tasting plates with house-made relishes, lamb sausages, local cheese and just-picked garden produce. Pair it with a wine flight or order a picnic hamper to enjoy among the olive grove; there’s a picnic option for your dog, too. And for a playful twist, Green Olive is home to what is believed to be Australia’s only pickleball court set within a vineyard or orchard.  

    Amid the many wineries with open cellar doors, Main Ridge Dairy offers a delicious detour – a goat dairy where you can sample handcrafted cheeses and even meet the resident goats. For a more refined experience, Paringa Estate is one of the peninsula’s most awarded wineries, offering fine dining with sweeping vineyard views and a menu crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.   

    If you’re looking to step outdoors before a lingering lunch, during winter Flinders Truffles offer the chance to join their clever dogs and search for the black gold under oak trees. For an authentic taste of the region, time your visit with one of the Peninsula’s vibrant farmers’ markets.

    From golf days to spa stays 

    Kingswood CountryGolf Club
    Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    With its champion courses, the Peninsula is a dream destination not only for those who love to tee off but for those who enjoy the post-golf wind down. Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club draws keen golfers from around the world, while Peppers Moonah Links Resort is a course that has hosted both a PGA tournament and two Australian Opens. For a true test of skill, The Dunes Golf Links is one of Australia’s top public courses. Each golf course offers accommodation, and staying onsite means maximum convenience, especially at The Dunes, where premium rooms have you sleeping right next to the fairway. Off-course indulgence is close at hand, too.  

    Alba Thermal Springs& Spa
    Soaking at Alba Thermal Springs & Spa. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Peninsula Hot Springs and Alba Thermal Springs are just next door, where thermal waters drawn from geothermal mineral springs deep underground provide the ultimate recovery after a day of perfecting your swing. These award-winning wellness sanctuaries offer everything from bathing pools to private plunges and spa treatments. 

    Jetty Road Brewery
    Jetty Road Brewery.

    After sinking the last ball, and the 19th hole beckons, the Peninsula serves up just as many dining options as it does golf courses. Just minutes away and right on the beach, Jetty Road Brewery is a laid-back spot perfect for a round of beers and typical pub fare. For something a little elevated, book a table at Epicurean. Here, a glass of local red pairs beautifully with handmade pastas and woodfired pizza, all served in a historical coolstore and packing shed dating back more than a century.